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April 30, 2026 | Issue #82 | Past issues

Aaron Place joins the City Commission

Aaron Place was officially sworn in as a commissioner during Tuesday’s Boyne City Commission meeting. He was appointed by the Commission on April 14 to fill the vacancy following the resignation of Commissioner Sandy Pritchard. (Photo courtesy of the City of Boyne City)

Inside this issue:

• Expect delays during M-75 construction
• Short-term rentals on the rise in Boyne City
• County board studies “hodgepodge” of buildings
• Career and Technical Education on Tuesday ballot
• Affordable homes coming to East Main Street
• Middle School presents “Annie Jr.” April 30-May 2
• Eddie Essay contest spotlights “remarkable kids”
• Details on Morel Festival coming in two weeks
• Library offers yard tools and activities in May
• Genealogy meetings set for May 7 & 16
• Free plane rides for kids at BC airport May 16
• Free trees and info for Arbor Day
• Boyne City gas prices jump 40 cents to $4.29
• Patrick McCleary history: A doll parade in 1907
• News briefs, Obituaries & Municipal News
• Thanks to the donors who keep the news coming!
• Music and entertainment listings

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Expect delays: M-75 construction kicks off today between Boyne City, Boyne Falls

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

Drivers traveling between Boyne City and Boyne Falls should plan for delays starting this week as road work begins along a key stretch of M-75.

The Michigan Department of Transportation is set to begin a resurfacing project today, Thursday, April 30, along M-75 from U.S. 131 in Boyne Falls to Air Industrial Park Drive in Boyne City. The roughly $1 million project will involve milling and repaving the roadway and is expected to last about three weeks, with completion anticipated on May 21.

The work was originally scheduled to begin later in the summer, but contractor scheduling changes allowed the project to move up, according to MDOT spokesperson James Lake.

Traffic will be reduced to a single lane during construction, with flaggers directing vehicles through the work zone. Most work will take place during daytime hours, though some nighttime work is also expected.

Drivers should plan for delays, though disruptions are expected to be limited, Lake said.



“Our standard is always to keep delays with this type of operation to less than 10 minutes,” Lake said.

Even so, motorists commuting between Boyne City and Boyne Falls are encouraged to build extra time into their travel plans and to remain alert for changing traffic patterns and workers in the roadway.

The timing of the project is intended to complete the work before the peak of the summer tourism season, when traffic along the corridor typically increases.

Lake said the project is aimed at improving driving conditions along the heavily traveled route.

Short-term rentals on the rise across Boyne City neighborhoods 

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com

Boyne City’s short-term rental market has grown significantly over the past two years, according to data presented to city commissioners this week.

At their Tuesday, April 28 meeting, commissioners received an update from Planning Director Zachary Sompels showing that 213 short-term rental licenses have been issued citywide as of April 22 — up from 161 units reported in May 2023 under a previous analysis by former Planning Director Scott McPherson.

That increase of 52 units represents a roughly 32% jump in short-term rentals over two years, and a rise from 6.7% of the city’s housing stock to about 9%.

The largest concentration remains in the Traditional Residential District, where 126 units are currently licensed, including 18 accessory dwelling units or owner-occupied rentals. That district is the only area in the city where a cap on short-term rentals is in place, and Sompels said the current total falls within that limit.

In May 2023, McPherson’s report showed 102 units in the same district, indicating an increase of 24 rentals in the city’s core residential neighborhoods.

Other districts have also seen growth. The Multi-Family Residential District increased from 22 units in 2023 to 25 today, while the Central Business District rose from 20 to 24 units. The Professional Office District, which had just one licensed short-term rental in 2023, now has three — a notable jump in share, now accounting for 20% of units in that district.

Some areas have remained relatively stable. The Waterfront Residential District and Rural Estate District each reported the same number of units as in 2023, with nine and seven rentals, respectively.

The data also highlights how concentrated short-term rentals are in certain areas. While the Transitional Commercial District has just one unit, it represents 25% of the housing stock there — the highest share of any district.

Citywide, the figures underscore a steady upward trend as Boyne City continues to navigate the balance between tourism-driven demand and long-term housing availability.

The update comes as commissioners continue broader discussions around housing policy, including enforcement of existing short-term rental regulations and whether future adjustments to caps or zoning rules may be needed.

City officials have scheduled a "Town Hall Meeting" to discuss short-term rentals at 6 p.m. Thursday, May 21, at St. Matthew Church community room.

In other business on Tuesday, the City Commission:

> Tabled a decision on a dispute between the city and Evangeline Township over 2025 planning services. A letter from the township board states, “Following the retirement of Planning Director Scott McPherson on December 31, 2024, the Township has been largely bereft of the services it contracted with the City for. Interim staff have

lacked the credentials and experience needed to fulfill the Township's planning, zoning and enforcement needs.” The township asked for a 45% reduction in the city’s fee for services, and City Manager Sam Demel recommended granting a 15% reduction.  

> Returned to open session after an hour-long closed session to approve three-year contracts with the local chapter of the police officers union through April 30, 2029 and the municipal employees union through March 31, 2029. Details of the agreements were not immediately available to the Boyne Citizen and will be reported next week.

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Charlevoix County business is conducted on three separate campuses, including this building in downtown Charlevoix.

Board considering changes to “hodgepodge” of county buildings 

By Carole Shane, cjshane@charter.net 

Charlevoix County Commissioners are considering changes to the location and configuration of county offices.

At the county board’s April 22 meeting, John McGraw of the real estate development group River Caddis reported on early progress toward helping the board plan for the best use of county properties into the future.

Currently, county business is conducted on three separate campuses. The board has previously discussed consolidating operations down to no more than two locations. 

They have also discussed the pros and cons of renovating the nearly 70-year-old county building in downtown Charlevoix or possibly constructing a new county courthouse on one of the sites.

McGraw gave a preliminary estimate of $60-80 million as the cost for building a new 50,000-square-foot county building, a process that would take four or five years to complete, once initiated. McGraw warned that construction costs are constantly rising and that postponing a large project will likely result in higher costs.

Commissioner Scott Hankins remarked that the current county building is a “hodgepodge of different buildings” and that “this would be the most expensive project I’ve ever been involved in.”

No action was taken on the matter of possible changes to the use of county properties. River Caddis will continue to study the situation with periodic reports back to the board.

Wheelway boardwalk

The board accepted a bid from Drillworks to complete testing of support pilings in the boardwalk area of the Little Traverse Wheelway. Drillworks submitted the lower of two bids with Elmer’s bid coming in more than twice as high as the $39,000 proposal from Drillworks.

The boardwalk area of the Wheelway has been closed since late last year when deterioration of the foundational supports were discovered. Patrick Machin of Machin Engineering estimated that the boardwalk area will be closed until at least July or August while the structural issues are studied and resolved. Closure of the boardwalk area will impact the route of the Charlevoix Marathon, scheduled for June 20, as well as the route bikers and walkers will take when accessing the Wheelway this summer.

Metered parking

Charlevoix County and the City of Charlevoix may collaborate on a revenue-generating enterprise involving a county-owned parking lot on Mason Street in Charlevoix. Commissioners agreed to allow Hankins to engage in discussion with Charlevoix city officials about the logistics of installing metered parking in a lot across the street from the County Building. 

A formal agreement would need to come before the board for approval before implementation. The county’s attorney advised that monies realized would have to be directed toward parking lot maintenance and not into the general fund.

Commissioners discussed the notion that individuals using the parking lot for official county business, such as jury duty, could have fees waived or reimbursed. Parking in county-owned lots is currently free.

In other business the board:

• Approved moving forward with a survey that would assess employees’ views of the county’s work culture. Cost is not to exceed $2,900.
• Tabled discussion of a financial audit until until the next board meeting.
• Approved resolutions regarding the Transit Millage, County Parks Millage, Veterans Millage, and a Separate Tax Limitation.

Char-Em ISD Career and Technical Education millage request on the May 5 ballot

Voters throughout Charlevoix, Emmet and northern Antrim counties will be asked to consider Char-Em ISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) millage proposal on Tuesday, May 5. This millage has funded vocational programs throughout the ISD’s 11 public school districts for 30 years, with the original millage approved by voters in 1996.

The 1.0 mill request, if approved, would keep the current 23 high school career tech programs operating across the ISD’s 11 public school districts, while maintaining numerous kindergarten-12th grade initiatives such as: Char-Em Street STEM delivering science, technology, engineering, and math tools; seven summer camps; career counseling; work-based learning; and tours of businesses, colleges, and trade schools, among many other efforts and innovations. 

The millage would generate approximately $8.1 million annually from 2026-2029. 

This request comes before voters every four years, with the last approval in May 2022 of 1.0 total mill. Because that millage expired on Dec. 31, 2025, by law the ballot language cannot be worded as a “renewal,” explained Char-Em ISD Superintendent Scott Koziol. Read the complete millage article on the Career Tech website. 

Affordable homes coming to Boyne’s Main Street

By Annie Doyle Grove, annie@boynecitizen.com 

A vacant stretch of East Main Street in Boyne City will soon become home to something the community has been asking for: an affordable place to live.

Later this summer, Northern Homes Community Development Corporation plans to begin construction on a three-bedroom single-family home at 820 E. Main St., with the goal of having it ready for sale by fall.

The home — about 1,400 square feet — will be available to buyers earning at or below 80% of the area median income, a price point increasingly out of reach for many local families. An asking price will be determined closer to the completion of construction.

“It’s been a long time getting the funding together to make this happen,” said Jane MacKenzie, who has led Northern Homes for the past 26 years.

The project is the first of three planned homes on the site, made possible through a partnership with the Charlevoix County Land Bank and grant funding from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. A dilapidated house that once sat on the property was demolished through a state program designed to clear blight and make way for new housing.

Two additional homes are planned on nearby lots at 818 and 822 E. Main St., though those projects remain dependent on future grant funding and could still be several years out.

While modest in scale, the project is part of a long-running effort across Northern Michigan — and underscores a persistent challenge facing communities like Boyne City.

Northern Homes, long based in Boyne City, is in the process of relocating its office to Petoskey, moving into space within one of its newest developments, the Lofts at Lumber Square.

That project, a 60-unit workforce housing complex that opened in December 2025, is already nearing full occupancy. One-bedroom apartments rent for roughly $1,250 to $1,290 per month, while two-bedroom units range from about $1,450 to $1,490 and three-bedroom units from $1,650 to $1,690. The development serves households earning between 80% and 120% of the area median income.

“We had the opportunity to move into space there, so it made sense,” MacKenzie said of the relocation, expected by the end of May.

The nonprofit’s footprint extends well beyond Boyne City. Northern Homes serves six counties — Charlevoix, Emmet, Cheboygan, Antrim, Otsego and Crawford — developing a mix of single-family homes, apartments and senior housing.

In Charlevoix, the organization is finishing a six-unit apartment development near the airport, expected to open this summer. Rents there are projected at about $1,700 per month, including utilities, and are aimed at what housing officials often call the “missing middle” — households earning too much to qualify for traditional subsidies but still priced out of much of the local market.

Bringing those projects to life, MacKenzie said, is rarely simple.

“Every project is a different puzzle,” she said. “You have to find the property, find the funding, figure out the need, and bring it all together.”

In rural communities, that puzzle can be especially difficult. Smaller developments lack the economies of scale found in larger cities, and funding often comes through competitive state grants rather than direct federal support.

Even so, MacKenzie said local partnerships and community support can make a difference.

Back in Boyne City, Northern Homes will announce application details for the East Main Street home once construction nears completion.

For now, the upcoming home represents just one project — but for the family who eventually moves in, it could be everything.

And for a community searching for solutions, it’s another step forward.

More than 85 students are part of the "Annie Jr." cast and crew.

Middle School presents “Annie Jr.” April 30-May 2

Boyne City Middle School Drama will present “Annie Jr.” for three nights beginning tonight at the high school Performing Arts Center. 

Performances will be at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, April 30 and May 1, and at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Admission is $5 at the door.

The musical features Katie Parsons as Annie, Quinn Kessler as Oliver Warbucks, Carly Traylor as Grace Farrell, Vivienne Ziegler as Ms. Hannigan, LaKaiden Barber as Rooster, and Cassidy LaBeth as Lily. 

Susanne March, the middle school drama director, reports that there are more than 85 students in the cast and crew. 

ABOVE, from left: Katie Parsons, Carly Traylor, and Quinn Kessler. 

BELOW: Orpah Natalie Richards sings into a broom.

Cathy Goforth of Huntington Bank hands gift cards to the essay winners.

Eddie Essay event spotlights nonprofits and “remarkable kids in our community”

By Kalynn Huffman Brower, kalynn.brower@gmail.com 

The Kiwanis Club of Boyne City presented part two of their annual Eddie Essay Awards Ceremony last Thursday morning, April 23. Held in the Boyne City Schools Administration Building banquet room, breakfast courtesy of the Culinary Arts program, this second part of the awards ceremony focused on local 10th grade students.

Huntington Bank co-sponsored the 21st annual essay contest. “Right from the start, we said we wanted to be a part of this,” branch manager Cathy Goforth said. “We used to give students a bond. Now we offer a small gift card to participants.”

Students choose a nonprofit organization in the area, choosing from 64 possible groups. The most compelling essays often reveal a personal connection between essay writer and the charity. 

Students spoke of providing food and transportation to families challenged with cancer or otherwise in need. They spoke of giving presence and connection to veterans. They also championed organizations that foster community building for young people. Camp Daggett is a perennial favorite and winner of this year’s gold prize, thanks to the essay by Aiyanna Burns of Boyne City High School. 

In her winning essay Burns remembers what she learned at Camp Daggett - “How to be a teammate, a good friend, and a better person.”

Scott MacKenzie, president of the Kiwanis Club, led the ceremony and expressed the sentiment felt throughout the room. “We are truly blessed to have such remarkable kids in our community,” he said. “Thank you, parents, for raising these wonderful children with the vision and passion to share their joy about making the world better.”

For more about the history of the ‘Eddie” Essay program and how teachers prepare their students for the skill-building assignment, see last week’s article on the fifth grade essays.

In addition to the Eddie Essay Award Winners, the Kiwanis Club awarded two continuing education scholarships for $1,500 each to Kaelyn Matelski and Emma Patton. Part of their scholarship application includes an essay that speaks to one of the six Kiwanis objects. 

The Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers “dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.” The Boyne City club meets at 7 a.m. every Thursday at Boyne River Grill,201 Water Street.

> More pictures from the Kiwanis Club Facebook page.

Scott MacKenzie presents the silver award to Ryleigh Sutherland for her essay on Meals on Wheels.

Aiyana Burns with her gold award for an essay about her life-changing experience at Camp Daggett.

Five-time mushroom hunting champ Tony Williams returns Friday afternoon May 15 to give a free seminar on how to find morels.

66th Mushroom Festival is two weeks away with tastings, seminars, music, arts and crafts, carnival and a morel hunt

Boyne City’s 66th Annual National Morel Mushroom Festival is just two weeks away, scheduled for May 14-17. Held in Veterans Park and other locations around the community, this popular event features competitive morel hunting, tastings, seminars, arts & crafts, live music, and a carnival. The festival celebrates the northern Michigan morel season every year on the weekend after Mother's Day. 

Here is the full schedule of events and we’ve picked out the main highlights below, held in a giant heated tent at Veterans Park unless otherwise noted.

CARNIVAL - The fun starts at 3 p.m. Thursday, May 14, with the Schmidt Amusements Carnival sponsored by Boyne Valley Lions. The carnival continues through Sunday, and discount ticket coupons are available at local businesses and the Boyne Area Chamber office.

ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW and food trucks are open from 12-6 p.m. Friday, 10 to 6 on Saturday and 12-3 on Sunday.

MOREL SEMINAR - Five-time morel hunt champion Tony Williams gives this popular free presentation from 3-4:30 p.m. Friday.

MOREL WINE & DINE is sponsored by the Boyne Area Chamber at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Beach House restaurant on Deer Lake. This event sells out every year, even with a $115 ticket price, so make your reservations here.

LIVE MUSIC from 7-10 p.m. Friday in the heated tent at Veterans Park with Yankee Station performing. $10 admission for 21 and older with a cash bar available.

COMPETITIVE MOREL HUNT registration and bus loading is held from 7:30-8:40 a.m. Saturday at Boyne City High School. Online pre-registration is recommended for $33.85 and includes transportation to the secret hunting grounds for a timed 90-minute hunt, which is held rain or shine. Trophies and cash prizes are awarded at Veterans Park after the mushrooms are counted. Here are the hunt rules and information.

FARMERS MARKET kicks off their outdoor season from 8 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday in Veterans Park.

PAINTING IN THE PARK is held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Kids and adults can paint a “one-of-a-kind morel masterpiece” alongside Daniel Duncan of Duncan Studios. Donations are appreciated to cover the cost of materials. 

TASTE OF MORELS is the festival’s premiere event, held from 12-2:30 p.m. Saturday. It is reportedly the “largest concentration of morel mushroom cooking in the world.” Local chefs prepare morel-infused delicacies and compete for the top three winning dishes as voted on by a panel of celebrity judges. Cash bar available. $10 admission with tasting tickets available for purchase.  

GREAT MOREL GIVEAWAY - Enter to win a pound of morels or a $50 gift certificate at multiple participating downtown businesses. Entries are free and can be made in advance at as many businesses as you like. Drawings begin at 4 p.m. Saturday at Freshwater Art Gallery and travel through downtown in the "Morel Mob" until drawings are done. Must be present to win. 

LIVE MUSIC from 7-11 p.m. Saturday in the heated tent at Veterans Park with Derailed performing. $10 admission for 21 and older with a cash bar available.

PAINT & SIP with Duncan Studios will be held from 12-3 p.m. Sunday in the park. Create a one-of-a-kind Michigan morel painting with detailed instruction by artist Dan Duncan, plus a complimentary glass of wine or beer, $60 per person. ​Pre-registration is required, check the festival website.

REMINDERS - All city parks are tobacco, drug and weapon free. Dogs are not allowed in city parks during special events and festivals.

SCHOLARSHIPS - Festival proceeds go to provide up to three $1,000 scholarships for ​2026 graduating seniors attending any school in Charlevoix County. The students must be in good academic standing and plan to attend a full-time accredited college, university or trade school. The application deadline has been extended to May 8. Here is the application.

Library offers yard tools and activities in May

The Boyne District Library is offering a variety of activities for all ages in May and early June. Here are the highlights from their latest newsletter:

• Yard tools you can use. See the complete list of neighborly items available to borrow in our Tools Collection.
• Crafts & Arts: Star Wars Printmaking - May 4, registration required
• Genealogy Workshop - May 16
• Classic Book Discussion: Frankenstein, by Mary Shelley - May 26 ages 14+
• Michigan Notable Book Author Tour! Bear County, Michigan, by John Counts - June 16, registration required

Genealogy meetings set for May 7 and 16 at library

If you are interested in tracing your ancestry, there are two meetings on genealogy in the next few weeks at the Boyne District Library.

GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY - The Charlevoix County Genealogical Society is inviting county residents to their meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 7 at the Boyne District Library. An announcement from the group says, “The Charlevoix County Genealogical Society wants you! Come and join us as we reorganize and revitalize our society and help you find more about your heritage, maybe find a Revolutionary Patriot to brag about during our country’s 250th birthday.” Questions? Call Chris at 231-582-9337 or 231-838-3449.

GENEALOGY WITH PATRICK - The Boyne District Library will be hosting Genealogy With Patrick on Saturday, May 16, from 1-3 p.m. in their lower level Community Room. Long-time local historian and professional genealogist Patrick McCleary will lead the group’s discussion. Participants are asked to bring along their laptops if they have them or sign up for use of those available through the library using the registration link for this event. This program is free and open to the public and all are encouraged to attend. This program is free and open to the public; no registration is required.

Free plane rides for kids at BC airport May 16

Free airplane rides for kids will be offered at the Boyne City Municipal Airport on Saturday, May 16. The free rides are being offered by the Harbor Springs chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association for children ages 8 to 17. Local licensed pilots who are members of the chapter are donating their services and airplanes for this event.

The rides will be offered from 9 a.m. until noon. Parents are encouraged to register their children online in advance to complete the necessary paperwork. 

Each child must be accompanied by a parent for a free flight. After the flight, each young person will receive an EAA pilot logbook and a certificate signed by the pilot.

If unsafe weather conditions cause the event to be cancelled, it will not be rescheduled. Other opportunities for free flights will be offered on Saturday, July 11, at the Harbor Springs Municipal Airport from 9 a.m.-12 noon, and on Wednesday, August 19, at the Pellston Regional Airport from 5-7 p.m.

The free rides are part of a unique nationwide program called “Young Eagles,” launched in 1992 to introduce kids to aviation and inspire them to think about the many possibilities associated with flight. The EAA has recognized the Harbor Springs chapter for participating in the Young Eagles program continuously since its start.

Free trees for Arbor Day

Above, The City of Boyne City staff members Jen Eads, police officer Mike Frazee, Heather Peck handed out free tree seedlings during the annual Arbor Day event at the Veterans Park Pavilion Friday. Below, Skylar MacNaughton of Michigan Butterfly Habitats talks with Jackie Malloy and Ashley Cousens. Also participating by providing information at the event were the Friends of the Boyne River, Boyne Valley Garden Club, Master Gardeners of Northern Michigan, Lake Charlevoix Association, and CAKE/cisma. The City of Boyne City has been a part of the Tree City USA program for more than 20 years.

Boyne City gas prices jump 40 cents to $4.29

Prices for regular unleaded gas have risen 40 cents from $3.79 to $4.19 per gallon in the past week at the Marathon station at 470 N. Lake Street. Other stations in town are priced the same. The $4.29 price is a 39% increase since the Iran war bombing began on Feb. 28.

Here are recent prices spot checked by the Boyne Citizen since the Iran war started on Feb. 28:

• March 3 - $3.099
• March 6 - $3.409
• March 12 - $3.669
• March 21 - $3.999
• March 26 - $4.199
• March 27 - $3.999
• April 6 - $3.899
• April 7 - $4.199
• April 13 - $4.159
• April 15 - $4.099
• April 22 - $3.799
• April 24 -$3.99
• April 29 - $4.29

> Michigan gas prices surging (AAA)

News Briefs

IRONTON FERRY OPENS - The Ironton Ferry opened for the season on April 24, delayed a week or so to make updates to the fuel system. Rides are free through this month, which means the last free rides are today, April 30. Single rides are $5. Cash or tokens from the County Transit app are the only forms of payment at the ferry. Operating hours are 6:30 a.m. to 9;30 p.m. until May 15, when it will operate until 10:30 p.m. The Ferry web page, which has links to live cameras and details on pricing and discount passes.

ECONOMIC SYMPOSIUM - The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) will host its annual Economic Symposium on May 15, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Boyne Mountain Resort, bringing together regional leaders, industry experts, and policymakers for a focused conversation on the economic drivers shaping Northern Michigan. This year’s theme, “Made, Grown, and Built in Northern Michigan,” will highlight the key industries powering the region’s economy - manufacturing, agriculture, and construction - while also exploring strategies to support future business growth and investment. Registration and event details. 

NATIVE PLANT SALE - The Charlevoix County Conservation District is moving its Native Plant Sale from fall to spring this year, when it will be held from 12-2 p.m. Saturday, June 6. The Plant Sale Species List and Garden Kit Order Forms are available now on their website. The plant sale is a browse and buy style sale with Garden Kits available for pre-order only. Individual plants are not available for pre-order. Garden Kit Order Forms are due May 1. For questions or to find out more information, call 231-582-6193.

COFFEE TALK - Boyne City School Superintendent Pat Little will be hosting his monthly Coffee Talk from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 6, at Lake Charlevoix Coffee Company in downtown Boyne City. Stop by to ask questions on school-related topics.

BLOOD DRIVES - Several local organizations are sponsoring blood drives in the coming weeks. Versiti Blood Center says, “The need for blood is urgent and constant. One in seven patients entering a hospital requires the availability of blood for various medical reasons.” Here are the upcoming blood drives in Boyne City and Boyne Falls:

• Boyne City EMS Department - 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Friday, May 22
• Boyne Mountain Resort - 12:30-5 p.m. Wednesday, May 27.
• BC Beauty Lounge, 115 S. Lake St. #B - 1:30-6 p.m. Monday, June 8.
• Boyne District Library - 1-5:30 p.m. Monday, June 22.

> To register, click here and enter your zip code for nearby locations.

BOYNE AREA SENIOR CENTER is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays and serves daily lunches from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. For seniors ages 60+, the lunch donation is $3, for ages 59 and under, $10; and for children 12 and under, $8. Here is the May lunch menu and the May activity calendar.



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City of Boyne City Municipal News

Spring rubbish pickup set for Saturday, June 6

The City of Boyne City rubbish collection pickup has been set for Saturday, June 6. This service is available to residential properties within City limits (3 units or fewer).

• Limit: Up to 2 cubic yards per household
• Set items out after 5 p.m. the day before
• Have items out by 7 a.m. on pickup day

Commercial properties are not eligible. View full details, including acceptable & non-acceptable items. 

WELCOME, AARON - Join us in welcoming Aaron Place, who was officially sworn in Tuesday during the regular City Commission meeting. Aaron was appointed by the City Commission to fill the vacancy following the resignation of Commissioner Sandy Pritchard. We appreciate his willingness to step into this role and serve the Boyne City community. We look forward to his contributions as he begins his service on the City Commission!

MEETING CHANGE - The City Commission’s second regular meeting in May will be held on Thursday, May 28, at 12 noon, following Memorial Day weekend. This is a change from the normal schedule of meeting on the fourth Tuesday of the month. A Facebook post from the city said, “This adjusted timing helps provide a bit of space around Memorial Day while keeping meetings accessible.”

NOW HIRING PARAMEDICS - The City of Boyne City is seeking applications from dedicated individuals interested in joining our EMS team as a Paramedic.

Apply today! Email your resume to jpuroll@boynecity.gov. First review of applications will take place on April 27, 2026. Find the full job description online at:

www.boynecity.gov/career.

HOUSING COMMISSION - The Boyne City Housing Commission is seeking a dedicated individual to fill an opening on its five-member Board of Commissioners. This is a volunteer role with a chance to make a significant impact on housing opportunities in Boyne City and Charlevoix County. The Housing Commission manages Litzenburger Place and Deer Meadows apartments, individual homes in Boyne City, as well as overseeing future developments and administering housing vouchers to support individuals and families with housing costs in the area. For more information about the Boyne City Housing Commission, contact Bethany Hedgepath, executive director, at 231-582-6203 or via email at bhedgepath@boynecityhc.com. To apply, please complete the application Board/Commission Member Application, the Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure form, and return both to City Hall, attention Jessica Puroll OR email to jpuroll@boynecity.gov. Applications due 5/2/2026.

SOUND SYSTEM BIDS - Boyne City Main Street is seeking bids to bring sound and plenty of music to downtown. We welcome bids from all qualified providers by the May 4 deadline. If you have any questions, call 231-582-9009. Details.

SIGN UP FOR CITY ALERTS - The City of Boyne City has launched a new Alerts feature on our website to help you stay up-to-date on projects, notices, and other important things happening around town. It’s designed to be a quick, easy way to get real-time updates, as they become available, directly to your email or phone. Sign up at: https://www.boynecity.gov/enotify/index.php.

CITY MEETINGS – Click here for board information, agendas, and minutes.

> City Commission's next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 12. Agenda page.

Obituaries

Helen Lee (Merchant) Bellant

June 16, 1940 ~ April 27, 2026 (age 85)

Photo correction

We placed the wrong picture with Patrick McCleary's column last week. This is the picture that should have appeared with the column. White’s Mill #1, located on the present-day site of Veterans Memorial Park and City Hall, suffered three devastating fires in 1908, 1918 and 1928. The third and final fire crippled the business, and the land was donated to the city for use as public grounds.

A commemorative photograph of an early event that took place in downtown Boyne City. This is just one of the many community and promotional events hosted by early businessman G. Dale Gardner. There was quite a turnout for this 1907 Doll Parade. The children are lined up along the east side of South Lake Street beginning in front of the S.B. Stackus Furniture Company. Beginning with the Stackus storefront, moving north (left) past the hardware store sign, the next building in line was situated where Eyes on Main is located today at the corner of South Lake and East Main Streets. 

THROUGH THE HISTORIAN'S LENS

Gardner’s Doll Parade for kids in 1907

By Patrick McCleary

The Charlevoix County History Preservation Society

In the early days of Boyne City, one of the community’s more successful businessmen was G. Dale Gardner. While little is known about his personal life, his business ventures are quite well documented. Perhaps part of the reason for his business acumen lay in the combination of his abilities to adapt to the needs of his clientele, successful advertising, and his use of generous and frequent promotional gimmicks.

While some details remain unknown about the date of his settling in Boyne, in March of 1904 it was announced that Mr. Gardner would build a furniture store in Boyne City. Advertisements claimed that his stock would include “Everything Under the Sun – New and Used.” 

At that time, some articles state that he had been in business in Petoskey for some years prior to this date. He had bought out the business of Henry Howe, also of Boyne City, adding to his already extensive stock. He purchased a double lot previously known as the “Thompson Lot.” Where this was located, I am not aware. However, his plan was to erect a storefront that consisted of an exclusive furniture department that would be “set up in first class fashion.” Whether this plan came to fruition or not is also unknown at present. In addition to both new and used furniture, Mr. Gardner made a specialty of reasonably priced watch repair, modestly priced jewelry and items that would interest the children of the Boyne City community. 

Things seemed to go along well for him until 1906, when local newspapers reported that he would be closing his business ventures in Boyne City and relocating to Petoskey. He had purchased the location and stock of an early Fochtman furniture store, and his intent was to reside and work in the same city, where previously he had been travelling between the two locations. 

One of the difficulties in documenting Mr. Gardner’s life and business activities in Boyne City lies in the fact that local newspapers for this period are far from complete. Missing issues and several missing months leave large gaps in detail. However, in this case, having business dealings in Petoskey meant that that city’s local newspapers picked up details that might otherwise be lost. In the Friday, September 21, 1906, issue of The Petoskey Independent, the following announcement made front page news.

BIG ADVANCE

G. Dale Gardner Will Continue His Boyne City Store.

Some time ago, it was announced that G. Dale Gardner would close his store in Boyne City and consolidate his business with the Petoskey establishment. Now, however, he has changed his mind and will keep both stores, as in the past, but will broaden out in each of them. The Boyne City Journal comments on Mr. Gardner’s change in that city as follows:

The new Oddfellows temple, which is fast nearing completion, is to be occupied on the first floor and the basement by G. Dale Gardner. Mr. Gardner has been looking for more room for some time, as he has endeavored to carry a large stock but has been so cramped for room that it was impossible to properly display the goods. The new location is especially adapted to his needs as it is both roomy and light. He will use all of the first floor and the basement for his furniture and house furnishing business and the extra room will enable him to add many other goods which he cannot do in the present location. 

The new place is 48 x 97 feet in size with the basement of the same dimensions. The building is being finished regardless of expense, and it easily goes without saying that with plenty of room at his disposal, Mr. Gardner will give Boyne City a furniture store of which we shall all be justly proud. He hopes to be able to take possession about the first of November. While Mr. Gardner is to be congratulated in having secured so good a place, the society is also to be commended in having made a wise choice as a tenant, for Mr. Gardner has proven his ability to successfully conduct a large and growing business. 

* * *

 The grand opening of G. Dale Gardner’s store in the Oddfellows temple was an event to remember for local citizens. The crowds that day were huge and both Boyne City and Petoskey residents poured in from early morning until late afternoon. Never without a gimmick as incentive, Mr. Gardner offered each person attending a goldfish! The store was noted for its wide variety of souvenir items - China items of all types imprinted with Boyne City landmarks and imprinted with “Boyne City, Mich.” He also sold customized postcards of local images and composite postcards that were sold each week as part of a series, depicting the many manufacturing firms in early Boyne. From his Petoskey location he compiled a pocket-sized booklet titled “Souvenir Tourist Guide.” This was advertised as a guide to the “Beauties of Petoskey and Emmet County.” 

And what of the photograph at the top of this article? With no newspaper coverage yet remaining within Boyne City newspapers, I was a fortunate to come across the item below. In doing so, we can now document some details about a wonderful early Boyne City photograph - an image that previously, little was known about. 

The Petoskey Record, April 17, 1907, Page 3 Column 3

Last Saturday afternoon [more than] 50 little girls with their dollies were at the Gardner furniture store promptly at 2 o’clock, in answer to his advertisement promising them a gift. On their arrival they were formed in line, each one with her dolly in a cab, and headed by a band of boys with tin horns, [marching] around town. Coming back to the store, they were given a choice of several kinds of small articles or a nickel.

A Christmas advertisement (c1910) for G. Dale Gardner’s business establishments.

What became of Mr. Gardner is yet a mystery, at least to me. He appears to have eventually closed his business in Boyne City’s Odd Fellows building and relocated once again to Petoskey. In 1911, it was reported that he lost everything, both building and stock, to fire. At this point, he does not appear in any further local records. While both of his parents are buried in the Petoskey cemetery, no mention is made of G. Dale Gardner or his family’s final resting place.

> Patrick McCleary is a Certified Genealogist affiliated with the Charlevoix County History Preservation Society (CCHPS), 12555 Taylor Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720. The CCHPS promotes the understanding and appreciation of the heritage of the people of Charlevoix County and its townships by seeking out, collecting, preserving, and interpreting artifacts of historical and cultural significance. For further information, contact Patrick by email: Throughthehistorianslens@gmail.com.

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MUSIC, ARTS, AND ENTERTAINMENT

Please email your special events and music information to jim@boynecitizen.com.

AMERICAN LEGION Post 228 - 302 S Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4188.

Bingo every Tuesday, open to the public, refreshments provided. Doors open at 3 p.m., play starts at 5, ending around 9. The Legion also has a breakfast on the second Saturday of every month from 8-11 a.m.

BC LANES/THE VENUE BAR & GRILL - 1199 M-75 S, Boyne City, (231) 582-6353.

> Open bowling: 3-9 p.m. Tuesdays, 3-10 p.m. Fridays, 12-10 p.m. Saturdays, 12-9 p.m. Sundays.

> Live music:

• Saturday, May 2 - Sandy & The Bandits, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9 - Sandy & The Bandits, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16 - Timberline, 8-11 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 9 - Summer concert series begins and continues every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

BOYNE ARTS CENTER - 1 Water Street, Suite 203, Boyne City, (231) 622-2073.

> Upcoming classes and exhibits:

• "Return to Light" Exhibit - Now through May 25
• Kids Art Camp - June 15 - August 14. Scholarships available. 
• Reviving Old Paintings - Demo Night with Julies Tibus - June 15
• The Art of Image Transfer - July 20
• Transform a Failed Painting Workshop - July 22
• Unveiling Trees: Collage & Contrast - August 3-4
• Colorful Figures: Expressive Mixed Media - September 10-11
• Alcohol Ink: Continue the Flow - September 21 - 22
• Book a Private Art Party
• BAC will be closed the week of May 25 to move into our new location at 211 Water Street.

BOYNE CITY FARMERS MARKET - Indoors at the Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake Street, Boyne City, (231) 582-9009. Open every Saturday, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. through May 9.

The market moves outdoors in Veterans Park starting Saturday, May 16, with expanded hours of 8 a.m.-12 noon on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

> Live music 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturdays:

• May 2 - John Richard Paul
• May 23 - Terry Coveyou

BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM - 220 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 459-4487.

• Mondays - Trivia
• Thursdays - Adam and the Cabana Boys, 7 p.m.
• Fridays - Patrick Ryan, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays - Patrick Ryan and Josh Raber, 7 p.m.
• Saturdays and Sundays - Sports on all screens.

BOYNE DISTRICT LIBRARY - 201 East Main St., Boyne City, 231-582-7861. Upcoming programs Including Crafts & Arts: Star Wars Printmaking, Genealogy Workshop, Classic Book Discussion: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, and Michigan Notable Book Author Tour! Bear County, Michigan by John Counts. Newsletter with May events and details.

BOYNE MOUNTAIN RESORT - 1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, (855) 688-7024.

> Weekly schedule of events and entertainment at all Boyne Mountain venues.

BOYNE RIVER INN - 229 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 222-4053.

LIVE MUSIC:

• Thursdays through May - Nelson Olstrom performs, 7-10 p.m.

BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS - 05325 US 131 S, Petoskey, (231) 373-2090.

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Saturday, May 2 - Nelson Olstrom, 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9 - Chase & Allie, 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16 - Two Track Mind, 2-6 p.m.
• Friday, May 22 - Chris Calleja, 4-7:30
• Saturday, May 23 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
• Monday, May 24 - Chris Calleja, 1:30-5:00
• Friday, May 29 - Michelle Chenard, 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 30 - TBD, 2-6 p.m.

CAFE SANTE - 1 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 582-8800.

> LIVE MUSIC:

• Friday, May 1: Michelle Chenard, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 2: The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, May 4 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, May 8: John Monkman, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 9: Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, May 11 - The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, May 15: Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16: Pete Kehoe, 7-10 p.m.
• Monday, May 18: The Shifties, 6-9 p.m.
• Friday, May 22: Lavender Lions Duo, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 23: The Fridays, 7-10 p.m.
• Friday, May 29: Chris Calleja, 7-10 p.m.
• Saturday, May 30 - Sean Bielby, 7-10 p.m.

CROOKED TREE ARTS CENTER - 461 E. Mitchell Street. Petoskey, (231) 347-4337.

> See website for updated art shows, entertainment, and children's activities.

GREAT LAKES CENTER FOR THE ARTS - 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Petoskey, (231) 439 -2600.

• Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m. - America’s Got Talent runner-up Chris Turner delivers jaw-dropping, no-script, freestyle comedy that leaves audiences laughing and amazed. Tickets and details.
• Friday & Saturday, May 8 - 9 - Northern Michigan Chorale presents Choral Compass: Navigating the World One Song at a Time. Details and tickets.
• Sunday, May 24 - The Hit Men, Classic rock supergroup. Details and tickets.
• Friday, May 29 - Crooked Tree Arts Center School of Ballet presents Dance Legends: Little Traverse Bay Celebrates Graham100. Details and tickets.
• See website for movies showing on the big screen.

LAKE STREET PUB - 202 S. Lake St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6031.

> TRIVIA NIGHT - Wednesdays, 7-9 p.m.

MUSKRAT DISTILLING - 121 Water St., Boyne City, (231) 268-0178.

> KARAOKE - 8 to 11 p.m. every Wednesday

> LIVE MUSIC and events:

• Monday, May 4 - Lit with Literature: Brimstone By Callie Hart, 7-9 p.m.
• Friday, May 8 - The Tweed Tones, 8-11 p.m.
• Saturday, May 23 - Sean Bielby, 8-11 p.m.

PIED PIPER ROLLER RINK - 04454 M-75 N, Walloon Lake. Admission $8, skate rental $2. Candy, chips, soda/pop, and pizza available for purchase. 

• Fridays - Open Skate (all ages), 5-9 p.m. (Closed May 8 for private event)
• Saturdays - Open Skate (all ages), 5-9 p.m.

RED MESA GRILL -117 Water St, Boyne City, (231) 582-0049.

> Live music on Tuesday, May 5 - Cinco de Mayo with Dave Cisco and his magical steel drum, 6-9 p.m.

STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN - 112 S. Park St., Boyne City, (231) 497-6100

> May 21 and the third Thursday of the month - Open Mic Nights hosted by Peter Allen Jensen, 6-9 p.m.

WALLOON WATERSHED - 4128 M-75 , Walloon Lake, (231) 535-6048.

Live music:

• Wednesdays - Pete Kehoe, 6-9 p.m.
• Thursdays - Laura Crowe, 6-9 p.m.
• Sunday Fundays - May 24 & 31 - Nic Visconti, 1-4 pm. 

The Boyne Citizen

P.O. Box 83, Boyne City, MI 49712

Email: jim@boynecitizen.com

Phone: 231-675-8793

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